Pro Hockey Alumni NEWS

​A prolific minor league scorer during the days of the six-team NHL, Norm Beaudin was an original member of the expansion St. Louis Blues in 1967. Later, he became the first-ever player to sign with the Winnipeg Jets of the fledgling World Hockey Association in 1972.

With the 1972-73 Jets, Beaudin was paired with the “Golden Jet” Bobby Hull and center Christian Bordeleau to form the “Luxury Line.” All three players would top the 100-point mark with Beaudin netting 103. Beaudin turned up the heat in the post-season, scorching WHA foes for 28 points in just 14 playoff games before the Jets finally succumbed to the New England Whalers in the WHA Finals.

Beaudin’s successful four-year run with the Jets culminated in May, 1976 as the Jets toppled Gordie Howe and the Houston Aeros to win their first Avco Cup championship.

What was it like jumping to the unknown WHA? Playing with Bobby Hull? Which NHL legend gave Beaudin a two-handed slash that he “still feels today.” Let’s talk with the man they call “The Original” and find out.